Knock out the Competition with our Build a Business Bootcamp (Plus: 8 Shops to Beat)

We’ve pushed past the halfway mark, racing towards the finish line in this year’s Build a Business Competition. But there’s still time to join. And even win.

Each year, we challenge budding entrepreneurs to take the plunge and start a new business. The strongest of the competitors – those who sell the most in any two-month period – win spectacular prizes, mentorships, and of course, serious bragging rights. This year, Build a Business VI winners will take part in the Entrepreneurial Experience of a Lifetime, including a week at the famed Great Gatsby Mansion where they'll rub elbows with the likes of Tony Robbins and Russell Simmons.

We know: starting a business is already hard work without the added element of competition. Like any olympic feat, though, success depends on training.

Whether you’ve been flexing your entrepreneur muscle since the launch of the competition, or you’re just starting out, we’re here to help. Beginning today, we’re hosting a free 30-Day Build a Business Bootcamp.

JOIN NOW: Start a free Shopify trial by signing up for the Build a Business competition, then request access to the Bootcamp.

And who are these competitors to beat, anyway? While we’re not giving away any spoilers, we’ve definitely spotted a few noteworthy contenders vying for the top prize. These early frontrunners caught our eye with innovative products, beautiful site design, and creative marketing strategies.

Get inspired by these 8 Shopify merchants punching above their weight class:

Power Play: The guys (and dogs) behind Burly Stone win with product descriptions that sell. They use this valuable real estate to tell a story about their products and the people who use them. It isn’t just soap, “it's like being outside on a snowy day and smelling a fire burning inside.”